New Delhi, Feb. 20 -- Reports suggest that the Swiss Guard, tasked with protecting Pope Francis, 88, has been rehearsing funeral procedures as concerns mount over his worsening health. The ailing pontiff has allegedly expressed fears that he "may not survive" his battle with pneumonia.

According to the Swiss newspaper Blick, cited by the Daily Mail, the Vatican's Swiss Guard has been making preparations for the pope's funeral. However, the Vatican has not officially responded to these claims.

Pope Francis has been hospitalised at Rome's Gemelli hospital after suffering from a respiratory infection. Initially diagnosed with bronchitis, the Vatican confirmed on Tuesday (February 18) that the pontiff has developed double pneumonia, a serio...